Outcomes following active surveillance of men with localized prostate cancer diagnosed in the prostate specific antigen era.

Abstract

We gained insights concerning outcomes associated with men who elect active surveillance for the management of localized prostate cancer. This is a retrospective case series analysis of 40 patients diagnosed with localized prostate cancer since 1990 who elected active surveillance. A total of 31 patients remained on active surveillance for a median of 48 months (range 12 to 168). The 5-year probability of remaining on active surveillance was 74%. Most patients who abandoned this strategy did so within 33 months of diagnosis (range 12 to 84). An increasing prostate specific antigen and anxiety were the 2 most common reasons. A delay in treatment did not appear to compromise subsequent outcomes. Men with low grade prostate cancer can elect active surveillance and have excellent long-term results.